Questions about fever and rash?

Question

My 16 month old daughter has had a fever since Tuesday. At the moment, it is at 100.4, so low-grade, but it has been as high as 102.4. We have taken her to the clinic and the hospital. At the hospital, the doctor said her bloodwork suggested a viral infection. This morning I noticed a very red, spotty rash up and down her chest, her back and on the right side of her face. I have a few questions.

1. She had her chicken pox vaccine. Is it still possible to get the chicken pox after receiving the vaccine?

2. Can the chicken pox be preceeded for days by a fever before the rash shows?

3.Can the chicken pox start as flat, red spots, or are they always bumpy immediately?

4. Do they always start all over the body, or can they start in one place and spread?

5. What other rashes could it be if it's not chicken pox?

6. If it is chicken pox, how will it affect my husband and I, who have not had them, and how will it affect our unborn son?

7. Is chicken pox a viral infection?

Answer 1

Make your doctor aware but this sounds like Roseola, not sure of the correct spelling for it.

Answer 2

Yes chicken pox are a viral infection! They do start out as a small rash with small flat red spots usually on the trunk and face and later on the arms and legs, my duaghter even had them on her scalp. The rash will raise in about 6-8 hours or so to spots that will itch and blister. I would call your OB-GYN ASP and tell them about your situation you could be at high risk if she indeed has the chicken pox regardless if she has been vaccinated or not. Your husband as well. I hope this helps, take care.  

Answer 3

Actually, this sounds like a different type of infection. This is a strange question, but can you post or e-mail a photo?

Regardless, you should go see your pediatrician again. This sounds like Scarlet Fever. This is a form of Strep infection, and can be treated with antibiotics.

The fever that remains isn't so high, and may be beneficial (a fever is one way the body fights infection). Just remember to keep her well hydrated and comfortable.

And though she has had the chicken pox vaccine, it doesn't convey 100% immunity (pretty close, but not quite). It is unlikely, but not impossible for this to occur.

Good luck and I hope your daughter feels better soon!

Answer 4

My son had the exact same thing and I freaked out because I thought it was chicken pox. It turned out to be Fifth Disease which was a viral infection. I would take her back in to see if they can diagnose her with anything now that she has a rash. You said that her rash was red spotty and kinda flat which is what my sons looked like. His started on his chest and went to his face but it usually starts on the face  I know once the rash shows up in fifth disease then it isn't contagious anymore and the medication regiment is just motrin and tylenol. The website below shows a picture of the rash and tells you about this... my sons rash wasn't as bad as the picture. Unfortunately if it is fifth disease then you have to call your OB because it can affect pregnant women differently. I don't want to worry you but I hope this helps out cause I know the situation can be scary.